The name “Zanzibar” is believed to have originated from the Persian word “Zangh bar”, which means the Black or negro coast. Zanzibar is basically an archipelago with at least 7 islands, namely Unguja, Pemba, Mnemba, Changuu, Mafia, Chumbe and Misali islands. Zanzibar is adorned with a rich natural beauty of coral gardens, white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Quotation:
“A crowded ferry ride away from Tanzania’s coastal city, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar is a marvel for the senses. Every sight and smell is provocative, inspiring a sense of the old and new.- Jodi Balfour
Area: 2,461 Km2 (950 sq mi).
Location: Eastern Tanzania on the Indian Ocean.
Temperature: 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).
Activities in Zanzibar:
The true pristine island.
Dating back from the 17 century, many arab settlers from Oman settled here and established the slave trade. The Stone town is a historic hub of oriental history, slave trade, Arabic culture and age old architecture like the House of Wonders, the Zanzibar Museum and the old portuguese fort. You can visit the Forodhani gardens at night and bliss your palate with numerous tasty coastal dishes that are famous for what Zanzibar is known for all over the world; Spices. Also called the Spice Island, this beautiful place has numerous spices that can be seen, tasted and bought at the pristine Spice gardens. You can venture into the deep through scuba diving and snorkelling excursions at Mnemba island or go for an early morning boat ride to spot Dolphins on the indian ocean. With its numerous beach front hotels and lodges, Zanzibar truly parks a punch when it comes to a classic travel destination.
Key attractions.
Visit the historic stone town and encounter old fort, House of wonders, Sultan’s museum & historic sites. Mnemba atoll coral reefs harbor many dolphins and majestic coral gardens for snorkeling and scuba diving. The slave market in stone town showcases the history of Zanzibar as a slave headquarter. The Jozani forest hosts many species of plants and apes as the only national park in Zanzibar. You can also take a stroll into the spice gardens and explore why Zanzibar is the world’s spice island. You can finish off in the evening at Forodhani’s African and oriental food scene that is famous all over the world.
Times and seasons.
From January to February marks the short dry season which is known for visibility & clear skies for sun basking and tours around stone town. From March to May, the long rainy season causes constant heavy downpours plus the month of Ramadan takes place during this time. Most places are closed until 18:00 hours. The long dry season starts from June to October marked by sunny skies & hot weather. Best time for sun basking & beach lovers. November to December brings the short rainy season; marked by drizzles & interchanging sunny atmospheres. Best time to explore Zanzibar.
